The Moselle River, winding through the heart of Europe, offers travellers a journey through some of the most picturesque landscapes and charming towns in Germany, Luxembourg, and France. Along its banks, you can explore the enchanting town of Cochem with its majestic Reichsburg Castle perched high above the river. The historic city of Trier, Germany’s oldest city, boasts impressive Roman ruins and the stunning Trier Cathedral. Vineyards blanket the hillsides, producing world-renowned Riesling wines, which you can savour at quaint wineries and wine festivals. The scenic river cruises provide breathtaking views of medieval castles, rolling hills, and idyllic villages.
Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.
5℃
6℃
11℃
15℃
19℃
22℃
24℃
24℃
20℃
15℃
9℃
6℃
11
9
9
8
10
8
9
9
8
10
10
12
Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.
Rainfall
When to Visit
Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.
January
Winter drapes the Moselle River Valley in frost, creating a serene and atmospheric scene. Towns like Cochem, Bernkastel-Kues, and Trier are quiet, with half-timbered houses dusted in snow. Many vineyards rest for the season, but wine cellars remain open for tastings, offering a warm escape from the cold. In Trier, Germany’s oldest city, its Roman ruins stand solemnly in the winter light, and wine taverns offer a taste of the region’s famed Rieslings.
February
Though still winter, February sees a livelier atmosphere with carnival season. In towns like Koblenz and Bernkastel-Kues, Fasching parades bring costumed celebrations, music, and revelry. The Eltz Castle, one of Germany’s most picturesque fortresses, takes on a mystical charm in the winter mist. For those who enjoy scenic drives, the Moselle’s winding roads offer stunning views of the river valley’s hibernating vineyards and medieval towns.
March
As spring slowly emerges, temperatures start to rise to 8-12°C, and the first buds appear in the vineyards. The Moselle Wine Route begins to stir with activity, and outdoor hiking trails, such as the Calmont Klettersteig, become more inviting. Trier’s Porta Nigra and Roman amphitheatre make for fascinating historical visits before the peak tourist season begins.
April
Spring is in full bloom along the Moselle River, with cherry blossoms and wildflowers coloring the landscape. The vineyards awaken, and towns like Traben-Trarbach host spring wine festivals. Cruises along the Moselle resume in earnest, offering a picturesque way to experience the region. The Burg Eltz and Reichsburg Cochem castles reopen, standing proudly against the bright spring sky.
May
By May, the region enjoys pleasant temperatures of 15-20°C, making it ideal for cycling, hiking, and river cruises. Vineyards, particularly those around Piesport and Zell, offer tours showcasing their budding vines. In Bernkastel-Kues, the Middle Moselle Wine Market brings together local winemakers to celebrate the start of the growing season. With longer daylight hours, riverside picnics and scenic drives become a highlight.
June
The start of summer sees the Moselle River come alive, with wine villages hosting open-air tastings and events. Towns like Beilstein and Kobern-Gondorf feel particularly charming as half-timbered buildings glow in the summer sun. The Moselsteig Trail, a long-distance hiking route, offers breathtaking views over the river. With temperatures around 20-25°C, outdoor cafés along the riverbanks are bustling, and the first river cruises to Luxembourg become a popular excursion.
July
Summer is at its height, and the Moselle’s terraced vineyards bask in 25-30°C warmth. The Cochem Castle Festival takes visitors back in time with medieval reenactments and knight tournaments. In Trier, the Altstadtfest (Old Town Festival) fills the streets with live music and food stalls, while boat cruises along the river offer a cooling breeze. The evenings stretch long into the night, perfect for a glass of Riesling on a scenic terrace.
August
Wine festivals dominate August, particularly in Bernkastel-Kues, where the Middle Moselle Wine Festival is one of the largest and most celebrated. Vineyards are heavy with ripening grapes, and local wine taverns (Strausswirtschaften) open their doors for seasonal tastings. The Moselle River sparkles under the summer sun, making boat trips from Koblenz to Trier especially appealing. For those seeking a different adventure, the Geierlay Suspension Bridge, located near the river valley, offers stunning panoramic views.
September
Harvest season begins, and the Moselle Valley is at its most vibrant, with golden vineyards carpeting the hillsides. The Weinfeste (wine festivals) reach their peak, with grape-picking tours available in villages like Kröv and Zell. The weather remains mild, around 18-22°C, making it an excellent time for hiking the Moselle Ridge Trail. In Trier, the Antikenfestspiele (Antique Festival) showcases Roman history through performances and reenactments.
October
Autumn transforms the Moselle River into a painter’s dream, with fiery shades of orange and red reflecting on the water. The last of the wine harvest is collected, and visitors can join in grape stomping at select wineries. Burg Eltz and Cochem Castle are particularly atmospheric, framed by autumn foliage. The region’s wine taverns fill with visitors savouring the season’s new vintages before the winter months settle in.
November
A quieter month, November sees the Moselle Valley winding down, though the St. Martin’s Day celebrations in mid-November bring warmth with torchlight processions and seasonal feasts. With cooler temperatures around 5-10°C, it’s a great time to visit the indoor vinotherapy spas in Traben-Trarbach, which use grape extracts for luxurious treatments. The historic towns remain charming, with fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere.
December
The festive season arrives, and the Moselle River towns light up with Christmas markets. Trier’s Weihnachtsmarkt is one of Germany’s most picturesque, set against the backdrop of its medieval main square. Smaller markets in Cochem and Bernkastel-Kues offer handcrafted gifts, mulled wine, and seasonal treats. The crisp winter air, averaging 0-5°C, makes it an enchanting time to explore the region, whether admiring the half-timbered houses dusted with snow or enjoying a fireside glass of Moselle wine.
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